Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric Project achieves a significant milestone as it attains its maximum generation capacity of 969 MW. The successful completion of repair work on one of its tunnels has enabled the project to resume operations, contributing crucial electricity to the National Grid, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan. This achievement underscores the project’s resilience and operational efficiency in overcoming challenges.
Overcoming Operational Hurdles
The project’s journey to reaching its full capacity has been marked by meticulous inspection and rehabilitation efforts, particularly concerning the tail race tunnel (TRT). Following a temporary cessation of operations in January for inspection purposes, the project underwent detailed assessments, culminating in the successful resumption of generation earlier this month. Notably, the involvement of an International Panel of Experts underscores the project’s commitment to adhering to the highest standards of safety and operational integrity.
Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric Project stands out as a testament to engineering ingenuity, with 90% of its infrastructure situated underground amidst challenging mountainous terrain. The project’s completion in 2018 marked a significant milestone in harnessing the hydropower potential of the River Neelum in Azad Jammu and Kashmir. Comprising a dam at Nauseri and an extensive underground waterway system spanning 52 kilometers, the project’s underground powerhouse at Chattar Kalas houses four power generating units, each boasting a capacity of 242.25 MW.
Contribution to National Energy Security
With an average annual energy generation of 4.6 billion units, Neelum Jhelum Hydroelectric Project emerges as a vital contributor to Pakistan’s energy landscape. Having generated a total of 19.562 billion units of green and clean electricity to date, the project plays a pivotal role in meeting the country’s burgeoning electricity demands.
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Its sustainable energy output not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also aligns with global efforts towards mitigating climate change. As Pakistan navigates its energy transition, projects like Neelum Jhelum serve as beacons of progress towards a more sustainable and resilient future.